Learning in Adulthood

Becky Breda
Book:

Merriam, S. B., Cafferella, R. S., Baumgartner, L. M., Learning in Adulthood:
     A Comprehensive Guide. California: John Wiley & Sons, 2007.

The book is intended primarily for educators of adults. It was organized so that the material would make sense to readers who are new to adult education and at the same time challenge those who are already familiar with the knowledge base of the field. The book addresses sociology, philosophy, critical social theory, psychology, and vocational practices.

Computers are a major component of our highly technological age, computer language has invaded the ways in which we talk of adult learning, (Merriam, p. 16). We as educators process students information, we plan learning activities, and we can program learning experiences with the use of a computer or other technology.

This book also describes and defines "andragogy," which is the art and science of helping adults learn, it was proposed by Malcolm Knowles, as a new label and a new technology of adult learning.

As an educator of adult vocational education in the field of cosmetology, I want to help young adults and adults of all diversities learn the arts and sciences of cosmetology. With the implementation of technology in theory lectures, hands on demonstrations by video, and research for cosmetology term word definitions so students can gain a better understanding of a concept, the use of technology adds additional support for all learners.